US Navy’s Newest Aircraft Carrier John F. Kennedy Begins First Sea Trials Ahead Of 2027 Delivery
The future USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79), the U.S. Navy’s second Ford-class aircraft carrier, has sailed for the first time, beginning builder’s sea trials ahead of its planned delivery in 2027.
The carrier left Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding yard in Virginia on Wednesday.
This marks the start of builder’s trials, a phase in which the shipbuilder tests key systems and equipment at sea before the vessel is handed over to the U.S. Navy.
Huntington Ingalls Industries said the trials will focus on checking how important ship systems perform under operating conditions. Builder’s trials take place after construction is largely complete and are a standard step before delivery.
USS John F. Kennedy is currently scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in March 2027. The carrier has faced several delays during construction at Newport News Shipbuilding.
Earlier plans had called for delivery in July 2025, according to U.S. Navy budget documents. However, the schedule slipped again last year due to ongoing difficulties in integrating new technologies and completing system work.
In 2020, the Navy changed its original plan to deliver the ship in two phases, instead opting for a single-phase delivery.
Fiscal Year 2024 budget documents show this decision added about two years of extra design and construction work to the programme.
The additional work included modifications to allow the carrier to operate the F-35C Lightning II fighter jet and the installation of the Enterprise Air Surveillance Radar, replacing the dual-band radar fitted on the first Ford-class carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford.
The latest Fiscal Year 2026 shipbuilding budget documents state that the delivery date was pushed back to allow time to complete and certify the Advanced Arresting Gear system and to continue work on the Advanced Weapons Elevators.
Both systems are new to the Ford-class carriers. The arresting gear is used to recover aircraft, while the weapons elevators move ordnance around the ship.
Although the full level of outfitting has not been disclosed, images released by the shipbuilder show clear differences between John F. Kennedy’s island and that of USS Gerald R. Ford, partly linked to the radar changes.
Newport News Shipbuilding’s president said in December that the carrier was expected to reach preliminary acceptance by mid-2026, ahead of its planned delivery to the Navy in 2027.
Reference: USNI
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Posts
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
Related Articles
Latest News
⚓️ Enhance Your Knowledge. Prevent Accidents. Stay Safe at Sea.
1. eBooks for Engine Department
Master machinery operations, troubleshooting, and safety procedures with expertly written guides tailored for marine engineers. Prevent costly breakdowns and onboard accidents through practical knowledge.
👉 Explore Engine Department eBooks
2. eBooks for Deck Department
Sharpen your seamanship, navigation, and cargo-handling skills with real-world case studies and practical insights designed for deck officers and cadets.
👉Discover Deck Department eBooks
3. eBooks on Electrical Fundamentals & Issues
Understand marine electrical systems, identify potential faults, and prevent onboard electrical failures with step-by-step explanations from industry experts.
4. Pocket Guides for Quick Reference
Compact, handy, and loaded with essential checklists—perfect for on-the-go reference during operations and emergencies at sea.
5. Combo Packs to Save Big
Access multiple expert eBooks at discounted prices. Ideal for professionals seeking complete safety and operational knowledge across various ship departments.
6. Digital Maritime Courses – Learn at Your Own Pace
Upgrade your competence with Marine Insight Academy’s online courses. Learn from industry professionals anytime, anywhere, and become a safer, smarter seafarer.
Subscribe To Our Daily Newsletter
By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and may receive occasional deal communications; you can unsubscribe anytime.
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT